Praia dos Estudantes

Praia dos Estudantes beach guide, how to get there and where to stay


The arch of Praia dos Estudantes, Lagos

Praia dos Estudantes is one of a series of beaches separated by cliffs in the center of Lagos. This one is connected to another to the north (Praia da Batata) by a tunnel. It’s very small, but one that many tourists make sure they visit, as it has a very photographed arch. This arch served as a bridge between two rock formations, and is known as “the Roman arch,” although it is not an ancient construction. It was part of a fort that stood on this site, and that collapsed in the great earthquake of 1755.

The calm waters of Praia dos Estudantes, Lagos

The name means “Students’ Beach” (it was also once known as “Praia da Formosa”) but it’s mostly frequented by tourists. It’s always crowded in the summer, as the surrounding rocks shelter it from the winds and the clear water is usually quite calm. If you want to take photos with the iconic arch behind you, you’ll have to be patient -- many other people will be waiting for the perfect angle to do the same.

Boats passing by Praia dos Estudantes, Lagos

The sand here isn’t as soft as at other beaches in town, and there are often shells. But it’s a good beach for swimming, despite the low water temperature. When the tide is very low, you can go under the arch towards the beach to the south (Praia do Pinhão), but this isn’t possible most of the time.

The tunnel that gives access to Praia dos Estudantes, Lagos

For closer views of the rocks and the arch, many rent a kayak. Most boat tours also stop by.

Due to the location in the center of town, you have plenty of places to eat and drink within walking distance.

Praia dos Estudantes, Lagos, Algarve, Portugal

Beach for: Social Media
Lifeguards: No
Bathrooms: No
Rentals: No
Bar or Restaurant: No
Accessible: No
Parking: Yes

How to Get to Praia dos Estudantes


If you’re staying anywhere in the center of Lagos, you can easily walk to this beach. Just walk south, down the coastal road (Avenida dos Descobrimentos) and you see the beaches. To reach Praia dos Estudantes, head towards the fort, then walk down to Praia da Batata and cross the tunnel. If you’re staying closer to Meia Praia, you’ll need to take bus number 2, which passes by these central beaches (you also have the option of the tourist train). To know how to get around Lagos, see the transportation guide.

Beaches by Praia dos Estudantes


In addition to Praia da Batata to the north and Praia do Pinhão to the south, you have the stunning beaches of Camilo and Dona Ana within walking distance. In fact, it’s highly recommended that you walk over the cliffs to these beaches. For their exact locations, see the Lagos beaches map.

Hotels by Praia dos Estudantes


Lagos Avenida Hotel

Lagos Avenida Hotel

This highly-rated hotel is centrally located on Lagos’ main road. It faces the marina and is within walking distance of Praia dos Estudantes and the other central beaches (about 15 minutes). It features a rooftop pool and rooms with balconies.

SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Lagos Avenida Hotel


Aqualuz Lagos Hotel & Apartments

Aqualuz Lagos Hotel & Apartments

Praia dos Estudantes is a short (8-minute) walk from this hotel mostly made up of apartments (there are also a few standard rooms). It attracts families and groups of friends, who may enjoy two large outdoor swimming pools, a rooftop terrace, massages at the spa, a fitness center, and local cuisine at the restaurant.

SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Aqualuz Lagos Hotel & Apartments


Lagos City Center Guest House & Hostel

Lagos City Center Guest House & Hostel

For budget travelers, there’s this guesthouse and hostel about a 10-minute walk from Praia dos Estudantes. There are dorms and private rooms, with shared or private bathrooms, and a communal kitchen where guests can prepare their meals.

SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Lagos City Center Guest House & Hostel